Posts Tagged ‘minimalism’

I’m a bit of a closet-minimalist but there is quite a large following of minimalism out there. Joshua Becker is unique in that his entire family was convinced of the benefits of minimalism a few years ago and has been pursuing that lifestyle ever since. His book, Simplify, is the result of his family’s pursuit.

There are a fewotherreviews to read through if you are interested in the content of this book, although the sub-title (7 Guiding Principles to Help Anyone Declutter Their Home and Life) gives you a pretty good idea. I’d rather focus on one specific topic in this book that grabbed me. It was a small portion of the book, a sub-bullet, that struck me because it is an area that I have not settled in my mind yet. Gifts and giving.

I honestly do not enjoy receiving gifts from others, which leads to a lack of interest in giving gifts to others as well. So when it comes to birthdays and holidays there is a strong reluctance to participate in exchanging gifts. This would be fine if I didn’t care for anyone but the people I love enjoy giving and receiving gifts. Here is how Becker described his solution:

We chose not to remove the joy that our relatives receive from giving gifts

We made a point to give them lists

After a time, we purge again

I think the first piece of advice outweighs all others. It is a great example of placing others above yourself (Philippians 2:1-11). Ultimately, Christ has shown us this example and we would grasp it so much more if we followed it.

I did enjoy Becker’s book and would recommend it to any family regardless of whether they resonate with minimalism or not. It is filled with a lot of practical advice for decluttering. The emphasis is on people and not possessions, which makes it one of the best books I’ve read on organizing and decluttering.

Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this e-book but will not profit from its sale.